Welcome to the Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine's admissions Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page. This resource is designed to provide you with comprehensive answers to common questions about our admissions process, helping you navigate the application process smoothly and confidently.
Application Questions
When can I submit my application?
For the2024-2025application cycle, the AACOMAS System will open onMay 5. Secondary applications to Nova Southeastern University are available on June 1. It is suggested that you apply as early as possible to allow adequate processing time and meet firm deadlines.
Can I submit an application before my MCAT scores are available?
Yes. However, please note that your application will not be complete for review until those scores are on file.
How do I check the status of my application or documents sent?
- Go to apply.nova.edu
- Enter your NSU online application login and password
- View the status of your application or documents received
If you have issues reviewing this information online, you can contact the admissions call center at (954) 262-1101 or 1-877-640-0218. They are available at the hours below:
- Monday – Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday: Closed
Is there a limit to the letters of recommendation I can submit?
No, feel free to submit as many letters as you like.
Please note that the system in Webstar will only update the first letters received which meet the requirements. If you want to verify if extra letters or other supporting documents were received, you can contact the admissions call center at (954) 262-1101 or 1-877-640-0218.
I am reapplying from last year. Can you use that application?
No, since we begin a new application cycle each year, you would have to resubmit a new application within thesame time frame. Only applications which are complete will be considered ready for review.
How do application fee waivers work?
- Access to fee waivers is limited to certain conditions.
- Only students who receiveanAACOMAS waiver and interview are also eligible for an NSU waiver.
- Fees are paid at the time of supplemental application to NSU and refunded once AACOMAS waiver is verified.
- The refund request form can take 60 days (estimation) to process your credit.
- Once credit is posted on the student account, students can contact the Bursar's Office at (954) 262-5200 to be advised on the time frame of a refund.
Review Questions
What is the committee looking for in an application?
Below are some of the things that the Committee of Admissions reviews when it is considering an applicant for an interview. These appear in no particular order.
- Community service and volunteer work: The amount of hours is not as relevant as the quality of the experience. Medical experience, such has shadowing a doctor or volunteering in a hospital, is highly favored. Candidates should demonstrate active involvement in the community.
- Science courses and grades: Your transcript is evaluated to consider what courses you took and how well you did in the course, as well as the academic load overall.
- Letters of recommendation: Make sure reference letters speak to your potential as a osteopathic medical student and strongly support your application. Letters must be signed or on letterhead. Authentication of the evaluator's recommendation is required.
- MCAT score: The average score is a 505. If, for whatever reason, you cannot make that score or above, then it is suggested that you submit as much information as you can to enhance your application (i.e., publications, additional letters of recommendation, etc.). Current trends in new MCAT format scores for the entering class of 2023 average at 506.
- The minimum GPA requirements are to have at least a 3.0 in your science as well as your cumulative GPA.
When is my application complete for review?
Once we have your complete AACOMAS application, NSU application, required documents, and official MCAT scores on file, your application will begin the review process. Proper letters of recommendation are required for a file to be complete.
You can check the status of your application by:
- Go toWebSTAR
- Click Admissions
- Enter your NSU online application login and PIN
- View the status of your application or documents received
If you have issues reviewing this information online, you can contact the admissions call center at (954) 262-1101 or 1-877-640-0218. They are available 24/7.
How long does it take to review my application?
This time frame can differ depending on when you submit your application and when interviews are conducted. The latest you will receive communication regarding your status may be in late March or April. (Please note this is tentative.)
How are MCAT scores reviewed?
MCAT scores are used to help the committee evaluate candidates' performance on standardized examinations, which is a critical competency for physicians in training. Scores are closely reviewed by subject sections in each area, but your highest and most recent overall score is used in making further decisions about your application. Composite scores between multiple attempts are not used to calculate a maximum score. Each attempt stands alone, and changes between multiple scores also provide information.
When and how will I be notified about an interview?
If your application is selected for an interview, you will be notified by the admissions counselor through an email invitation. This information will provide you access to the appointment scheduling system. If you do not respond in a timely manner, invitations may be withdrawn. Please be sure you have added NSU to your accepted email contacts to ensure you receive important correspondence from us. On occasion, you may also hear from admissions through outreach calls for further information or to expedite your interview appointment.
Admissions Requirements
Is the MCAT a requirement for admissions?
Yes, your application will not be reviewed without one. Please note: This is also needed if you want to transfer into NSU-KPCOM.
Do you have a minimum MCAT score requirement?
No. However, the average MCAT score for the incoming class of 2023 is 506.
Do you accept January MCAT scores?
January exams for the first attempt are not considered. If, however, you are retaking the test in January to improve your application, be sure to expedite the official results to the NSU document processing center. Incoming AACOMAS applications and updates will stop shortly after the January 15 deadline. Bear in mind that the deadline for all submittals to NSU is March 1 in order to qualify for review. Late updates will hinder the processing of your application.
What is considered a competitive GPA?
Competitive GPAs for the D.O. program can start at 3.5 for science, non-science, and cumulative. This range can also be influenced by the results of the total applicant pool for the cycle, and candidates must meet the minimum requirements to be eligible for consideration.
How does NSU calculate my GPA?
GPAs are automatically calculated when you submit your application in AACOMAS. Through verification of your academic pursuits, the application service will consider and calculate all grades into an average for that area, as well as overall attempts. If you have any questions regarding this process please contact AACOMAS at 301-968-4190.
How about credits from community college or online courses?
We do accept credits for community college or online course as long as the class is from a regionally accredited college/university. This information can be obtained directly from the institution.
Do you prefer credits taken from Nova Southeastern University?
There is no preference, as long as you take the courses from a regionally accredited school. In fact, diversity in your studies can show strength in your academic abilities.
Do you accept international students?
Yes, we do as long as they meet the requirements for the program.
International applicants who will require a Form I-20 and F-1 visa will work with the Office of International Affairs after they have been fully admitted into the program.
Information about obtaining the Form I-20 is available at https://www.nova.edu/internationalaffairs/students/prospective/i20.html
For more information on the I-20 process, please contact the Office of International Affairs:
Phone: (954) 262-7240
Email: intl@nova.edu
Miscellaneous Questions
Can I see where recent graduates place?
Yes, please visit the NSU-KPCOM website pageto learn more about previous graduates.Whether your goals lie in primary care or a specialty, you’ll have plenty of choices as a result of your D.O. degree from NSU.
What hospitals do the students do their rotations at?
Please visit our web page list of core clinical rotation sites.
How much does the program cost?
Tuition and fees vary each year for the program. If you want to check the latest costs, please visit our Tuition and Fees Web page or call (954) 262-3380.
Where can I get information about housing?
You can visit our On-Campus Housing web site or contact someone at the phone or email listed below.
Phone: (954) 262-7052
Email: housing@nova.edu
